statuette de gardien en bronze doré chine, dynastie ming, XVIIE siècle

assis sur un lion bouddhiste rugissant, vêtu d'une riche armure et paré de bijoux précieux, un écureuil dans sa main gauche, l'autre esquissant un mudra, le visage sévère au fin collier de barbe encadré de larges boucles d'oreille sous un haut chignon retenu par une tiare ouvragée, l'animal à la crinière bouclée, queue touffue et yeux exorbités richement harnaché couché sur une base lotiforme, une fleur de lotus incisée à la base, traces de polychromie

The figure is in overall very good condition. It is very heavy and the gilding rich. There are traces of red pigment to the tail and mane of the beast. The gilding of the face and hands is very lightly worn. The base is sealed and has some areas of a greenish patina where the copper plate has oxydized.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."